Chapter 1 Summary

The Introduction and Chapter one has provided me with useful information regarding project-based learning. Throughout the journey of this approach, it is important to keep in mind various key ideas that will help lead to success. First of all, students are up to the challenge of working in a digital world, given that most are already involved in some type of online blog or social network. Secondly, the teacher should begin with the end in mind, keeping positive expectations of the outcome of the project. The learning that takes place not only by the students but also the teacher is well worth the effort. Students will be more interested in something that they know matters, and engage more in the material since it is real world experiences.

Project-based learning comes with numerous benefits that text books simply can't offer. The approach allows students to have a choice in their learning that will result in an authentic outcome. Instead of following the teacher's lead, the students are able to think critically for themselves and create their own meaning. The approach also prepares students to succeed in our constantly changing world by exposing them to current digital tools. At the end of the project, the teacher can also learn from the experience by reflecting on what worked and what didn't.

The students will be able to expand their knowledge in many different areas through project-based learning. Improvement in communication skills comes from working with other students and learning more about different cultures. Exploring different parts of the world also helps to develop their inquiry skills. They become more flexible with their time and are able to manage it better through the use of deadlines. Most importantly, they begin to realize how the world works and the importance of their role in it.

Aside from the benefits that come with project-based learning, there are some issues that need to be considered when dealing with this approach. Parents may not always agree with the use of technology such as the Internet, claiming it is only used for games. It is important for the teacher to work with parents to explain the benefits that can come from using digital tools.

New Technology High is a school that serves as an ideal example of New Technology Model. The entire school supports the school’s main focus of project-based learning. Using technologies such as the Internet allows students to access their work on any computer, at any time. They have the ability to create online portfolios, where all of their work is saved together to be reflected on in the future. With a student body of roughly 400 students, the teachers can become more personalized with each student. This leads to less time spent on behavior and more time spent on learning. Teachers also work closer with the staff, collaborating with one another on new ideas and projects.